A FORMER senior hair stylist at a five-star Australian resort has set up her own wedding shop in Newport.

Jenna McDonnell, a fashion graduate from what is now the University of South Wales’ Caerleon campus, returned home after travelling and working abroad, and has set up her own salon and shop on Chepstow Road, aptly named Jenna McDonnell.

Miss McDonnell, 27, of Eveswell, said she had a good job abroad but returned home because she feels it’s a great place to live and work.

“I day-dreamed about having a shop while I was travelling. The landlord here has been really good, we’ve had to do a bit of plastering and decorating. The theme is vintage and shabby chic.”

After studying theatrical and media make-up at Cross Keys and training at Maindee Hair Salon, Miss McDonnell worked at Celtic Manor after her degree and went on to become senior hair stylist at the Four Seasons resort in Sydney, Australia.

The former St Joseph’s pupil will now work with other local businesses to sell their wedding-themed goods and will have a beautician, hair dresser and make-up artist in store.